PART OF BROADER SOCIAL COMPACT
Dr Koh said the activities were curated based on user research and designed to ensure jobseekers have access to professional guidance through WSG career coaches and resources.
“Through these touchpoints, jobseekers will be more assured that they are on the right track to re-entering employment,” he said.
“As jobseekers embark on these activities as part of their job search journey, we hope to build up their confidence. And when jobseekers eventually return to work, we hope they will regain their sense of identity and self-worth.”
He also described the jobseeker support scheme as part of a broader social compact: “The government will support you through difficult times, while you take personal responsibility and make an effort to overcome career setbacks and bounce back stronger.”
The scheme is expected to be implemented first for Singapore citizens in April, followed by permanent residents in the first quarter of 2026. It is targeted at lower- and middle-income workers.
Only those aged 21 and above who previously earned up to S$5,000 a month on average will qualify. They must have become unemployed due to involuntary reasons such as retrenchment, cessation of business, dismissals or termination due to illness, injury or accident.
Additionally, applicants must reside in properties with an annual value of S$25,000 or less. This covers all Housing and Development Board flats and some lower-value private properties, according to the Ministry of Finance in November 2023.
Dr Koh stressed that the jobseeker support scheme should not be viewed in isolation, as it complements other financial aid programmes.
For example, a retrenched worker who enrols in long-form training can apply for both the jobseeker support scheme and the SkillsFuture Level-Up programme. Over six months, the individual would receive up to S$21,000 – S$15,000 in training allowances and S$6,000 in jobseeker payouts.
Those facing financial hardship may also seek additional assistance through ComCare.
